The Impact of the Turning Point

Following Buddha's teachings, people became more aware that they needed to steer clear of the ignorant mindset. In Buddha's first Sermon, he tells his worshipers that there are two extremes in life: a life of peace and a life given to pleasures. A life given to pleasures, Buddha explained, was worthless and had no meaning to any person. Buddha believed a life devoted to material things was a life devoted to ignorance. A life a peace and happiness was a life worth living. Buddha's teachings in India enlightened people to believe they are truly and naturally good. By believing people are good, they are abolishing their own fear by allowing themselves to connect with themselves and others.

Who is Buddhist Today?

For many years, Buddhism has become the dominant religion of the Eastern world. Today it remains the most practiced religion in China, Japan, Korea, and much of southeast Asia. Since the Asian population has expanded in the United States, the practice of Buddhism has become very popular. Today, there are more than 300,000 Buddhists living in the U.S.Top 10 Countries Practicing Buddhism:Country Percent of BuddhistsThailand 95% Cambodia 90% Myanmar 88% Bhutan 75% Sri Lanka 70% Tibet 65% Laos 60%Vietnam 55 %Japan 50% Macau 45%Taiwan 43%http://www.buddhanet.net/e-learning/history/bstatt10.htm

Significance of Buddha's teachings

The Impact that Buddhist teachings on India was significant because it opened the eyes to people all around India to make them realize being attached to people will not allow them to live life happily. He taught that love and compassion for others should not mix together with attachment because that is how people get away from the peace. The significance Buddha's teachings had was evident in how many people take Buddhism as their primary religion. Buddhism helped people believe in something at a time of need where their own religion was denying them of being important. As shown in the picture, Buddha's gesture was to touch the ground showing his connection with all of earth. Buddha and all those who practice Buddhism have a connection to the earth and are one with it.